Organizational Structure

Research Assistants report to the Director, and various project leaders involved in research with the Institute for Sustainable Horticulture.

Summary

The Institute for Sustainable Horticulture partners with agricultural and agri‑technology companies in our region to support innovation with research and development projects that promote sustainability in the sector. Current projects include developing microbial biocontrol products for pests and diseases, natural soil amendments and inoculants, biofertilizers, agritech applications, alternate growing systems, and soil microbial health. Work hours and start dates are dependent on external research grants and can be either part‑time or full‑time.

Key Responsibilities

- Greenhouse and growth chamber plant trials with biostimulants, biocontrols
- Laboratory trials with beneficial microbes involving sterile technique, monitoring growth and interactions
- Maintaining greenhouse crops, transplanting, pruning, harvesting, IPM scouting, releasing bios, cleaning pots, and general greenhouse support
- Soil sample collecting and processing
- Support field trials off site
- Collect, record and analyze data, assist with data interpretation and contemplate what, why and how
- Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

These positions are suitable for students and new graduates with interest in biocontrol and horticulture, e.g. Horticulture Diploma, Plant Health Degree. The work requires a strong attention to detail and the ability to stay focused when performing repeated tasks. Some positions require travel between KPU and field sites.

Salary Information





Anticipated hourly pay rate: $20.00

Total Rewards

As part of our total rewards offerings, KPU also offers extended health and dental benefits, a healthcare spending account, generous vacation package, defined pension plan, parenthood top‑up, sick leave, long‑term disability, life insurance, professional development days, tuition waiver, in‑house training & development, inter‑campus transportation, and more. Eligibility requirements apply; advantages may vary depending on the employee group the position belongs to and whether the position is temporary or part‑time.

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Note to Applicants

Kwantlen Polytechnic University welcomes and encourages applications from equity‑deserving groups and diverse experiences including, but not limited to, Indigenous people, racialized people, people with disabilities, and members of the 2S/LGBTQIA+ community. If there are any barriers that you are experiencing or an accommodation that we can provide to support you through the application process, please reach out to us at [email protected].

Kwantlen Polytechnic University is committed to protecting the safety and welfare of employees, students, and the general public, and upholding the reputation and integrity of the University. For this reason, final applicants will be asked to undergo a background check.

We thank all applicants for their interest in employment with KPU. Only candidates who are legally eligible to work in Canada will be considered; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

📌 Institute for Sustainable Horticulture Research Assistant Pool - Competition ID: 4725 (Langley)
🏢 Kwantlen Polytechnic University
📍 Langley